Gadget Rumor: Apple To Acquire ARM Chip Maker For $8 Billion

Like the Borg, Apple likes to conquer and assimilate. The trend continues with rumors that the company is set to purchase chipset maker ARM for a rumored 8 billion dollars US. Remember that the Cambridge, UK based ARM makes the custom, super fast processor housed within the iPad, in addition to mobile chips for a variety of other companies. Apple’s relationship with ARM goes back to the Newton notepad from the early 90’s, as well as the iPod and iPhone. But right now, Apple pays royalties every chip they buy. With this acquisition, those costs would be eliminated, and Apple could basically decide whether or not to trounce the mobile competition by raising prices. We’ll just have to wait and see.